This site aims to inform and mobilize Beverly parents to take an active role in all issues related to the funding and operation of the city's schools. It was launched in the spring of 2008, when the city saw its first-ever override attempt fail, followed by the closure of a nearly-new elementary school. Subsequent years have seen further cuts that have led to larger class sizes across the district. While the opening of an impressive new high school and plans to replace the city's aging middle school give us reason to be optimistic, the school community must be ever vigilant in demanding appropriate school funding by city and state governments, and better community communications from the district and School Committee.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

After two years of a more PTO-based format, the district is bringing back its traditional State of the Schools night on Wednesday, February 29th in the high school auditorium. New School Committee President Maria Decker says the change is "an attempt to improve community relations and increase communication about the schools."

The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. with refreshments and an opportunity for the community to speak with School Committee members
and district leadership. The formal program will begin at 7:00 p.m. and will be aired live by BevCam.

Presentations will be given by Decker, as well as Superintendent Marie Galinski, and several district administrators, including Assistant Superintendent Maryellen Duffy, Beverly High School Principal Sean Gallagher, Technology Director Judy Miller, and Briscoe Middle School Principal Matt Poska.

The program will highlight district initiatives, accomplishments, and challenges including the Strategic Plan, Race to the Top grant participation, Statement of Interest on the middle school, Small Learning Communities Grant, the new DESE Evaluation Program for all educators, and community outreach, partnerships, and contributions.